1 And he said to his disciples, Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Luke 17:1-3 ESV
Jesus takes the faith of those who believe in Him very seriously according to the above statement. In speaking with people who no longer attend worship or even have become atheist a common thread has appeared. Many of these people, when asked kindly, why he or she does not attend worship or no longer think God exists were once dedicated believers.
It would be the easiest thing to condemn the unfaithfulness and hatred of God. But is that the response desired by Jesus? We see in the Gospel accounts our Shepherd being kind to offended people. Whether an adulteress in a despised village or a leper chased from a religious city Jesus showed compassion, kindness and forgiveness to that person. He did this because it pleased his Father and that was his major motivation. This should become our motivation in serving our neighbour as well.
The good news is that Jesus fulfilled this requirement for us and we receive this accomplishment by faith. Both those who offend and the offended have sins forgiven on the cross of Jesus and in his resurrection we all have justification.
Let us believe this good news, repent and receive remission for our sins. At this time we know we are in God’s peace and will strive to live in that peace. Amen. †
OFFENDED!!!!!! 
What a wonderful reminder that we were all unbelievers. And even in our belief, we struggle with doubt and unbelief.
But the Lord desires that ALL would come to faith in Himself.
I need to remember this. I need to remember that I am not such a good guy for believing…but that He has made me one (a believer).
Thank you, St. David for sharing this gospel Word with us!